1969 The Pony Palace

Walt Vermedahl poses by the ill-fated Pony Palace during preparations for its grand opening October 18 - 25, 1969. Planned for the opening were rodeos, o-mok-sees, horse shows, a dog show, archery contest, hobby and produce sale, equipment display, dances, etc. Facilities included a full-size indoor rodeo arena with seating capacity for 2,000; 85 box stalls for horses; a western wear and tack shop, coffee shop, and a meeting room. The outside would have three separate arenas plus race tracks. Later, however, the building roof was collapsed by heavy snow. The property is now occupied by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe's People's Center.